1953 Studebaker Commander vs. 2012 Kia Optima
To start off, 2012 Kia Optima is newer by 59 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Studebaker Commander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Studebaker Commander would be higher. At 3,809 cc (8 cylinders), 1953 Studebaker Commander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1953 Studebaker Commander. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1953 Studebaker Commander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1953 Studebaker Commander weights approximately 157 kg more than 2012 Kia Optima.
Because 1953 Studebaker Commander is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1953 Studebaker Commander. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Kia Optima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1953 Studebaker Commander. (258 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1953 Studebaker Commander.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Studebaker Commander | 2012 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Studebaker | Kia |
| Model | Commander | Optima |
| Year Released | 1953 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3809 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 274 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 364 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1692 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5140 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 2797 mm |
